April 13-27, 2017 | AVALON PASSION 15 DAY RIVER CRUISE FROM AMSTERDAM TO

See the highlights of Central Europe on this enchanting river cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest. Guided sightseeing in each city shows you the highlights, and is conducted by Certified Local Guides. Cruise through the scenic canals of Amsterdam and through the dramatic Rhine Gorge past the legendary Lorelei rock. Spend time in magnificent Cologne, the charming wine village of Rüdesheim, medieval Bamberg, historical Nuremberg, and magical . Attend a beer tasting in Bamberg and enjoy inside visits of Würzburg’s Bishop’s Residenz, and St. Martin’s Cathedral in . While on board, be sure to have your camera ready to capture the scenic beauty, quaint towns, fascinating architecture, and historic buildings dotting the landscape as you sail along.

If you have any questions please call Danny Genung at (909) 266-0117 or email him at [email protected]. Itinerary Overview Apr 13 Thu Arrive In Amsterdam, Holland Apr 14 Fri Amsterdam, Holland Apr 15 Sat Cologne, Apr 16 Sun Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim Apr 17 Mon Main Village River Apr 18 Tue Würzburg Apr 19 Wed Bamberg Apr 20 Thu Nuremberg Apr 21 Fri Regensburg Apr 22 Sat Passau Apr 23 Sun Dürnstein, Apr 24 Mon Vienna Apr 25 Tue Bratislava, Apr 26 Wed Budapest, Apr 27 Thu Budapest (Disembarkation)

Day 1 – April 13 Arrival in Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam! Holland’s sophisticated, modern capital has a rich 700-year-old history and a distinct ambiance. Maybe stroll through the lively marketplace or see the works of famous Dutch masters at world-renowned museums. This afternoon, board your river cruise ship and meet your crew at an evening welcome reception. (Dinner)

Day 2 – April 14 Amsterdam

Today, get a unique perspective of Amsterdam on an included CANAL CRUISE, floating along the elegant grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” There’s free time in the city this afternoon—or you might like to join an optional excursion before bidding tot ziens (farewell) to Holland and setting sail for Germany. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Optional Premium Excursions: ANNE FRANK HOUSE Visit the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary during the Second World War. For more than two years, Anne Frank, her family, and four others lived secretively in the back part of her father's office building at #263 Prinsengracht, before being betrayed and turned in to the Nazis. If you have read the famous diary much of this will be familiar to you, but even if you haven't this can be a thought provoking place to see. The Anne Frank House/Museum, open since 1960, is probably the most famous attraction in town for new visitors. Take advantage of our tailor made tour, with an introduction by our local escort, hassle free transport and priority entrance.

FLOWER TIME IN TULIP LAND - THE KEUKENHOF FLOWER EXHIBITION Historical Keukenhof with over 7 million tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and all the other spring bulbs, is a must. The floral displays in the park and the flower shows in the various pavilions are a glorious visual feast. And in the midst of this magnificent spectacle of color there are also exquisite works of art. Keukenhof is an unforgettable experience for people of all ages. It has been one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands for almost 60 years and is famous worldwide. Here you can gain inspiration while you relax in the magnificent surroundings of the park. It is unique and guarantees the most fabulous photos.

Day 3 – April 15 Cologne, Germany

Today, enjoy a peaceful morning of cruising before reaching Cologne after lunch. One of Germany’s largest cities and capital of the Rhineland, Cologne straddles both sides of the Rhine and is known for its soaring, twin-steepled gothic cathedral. Choose between a GUIDED CITY WALK or JEWISH HERITAGE WALK. Later, during free time, consider checking out the Romano-Germanic Museum, home to a large collection of artifacts from the Roman settlement on which modern Cologne is built—a must for history buffs! The Old Town abounds with cafés, shops, and taverns. Be sure to try a Kölsch pale lager, locally brewed in Cologne for over a hundred years! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4 – April 16 Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim

This morning, cruise through the dramatic RHINE GORGE—without a doubt, the most beautiful stretch of river and where ancient castles stand sentry on lofty cliffs rising 400 feet above the waters. Cruise past the rock of the Lorelei, where legend tells of enchanted siren song that lured sailors to their doom. On your included shore excursion in pretty Rüdesheim, visit SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM, where you’ll be mesmerized by the self-playing calliopes and music boxes from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT and free time to pick up some souvenirs on the narrow, cobblestoned Drosselgasse, where colorful flowers, open-air wine gardens, and live music add to the festive atmosphere. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5 – April 17 Main Village River

On the banks of the Main River you find cultural gems of small towns, many of them tucked away behind defensive walls and towered gates. With half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and medieval town centers, these picturesque Bavarian villages are a photographer’s delight. Join your Local Guide to experience one of these towns on a GUIDED WALK. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6 – April 18 Würzburg

Surrounded by verdant hillside vineyards, Würzburg, the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” makes an immediate impression with imposing Marienberg Fortress perched above town and the 15th-century Alte Mainbrucke (Old Main Bridge). On your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR this morning, visit the magnificent baroque BISHOP’S RESIDENZ, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted. Depart Würzburg at lunchtime and spend a leisurely afternoon cruising the Main River. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7 – April 19 Bamberg

Today, arrive in medieval Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany’s most powerful imperial dynasties and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your GUIDED WALKING TOUR takes in its historic center, including the great 13th-century Romanesque cathedral and the fascinating Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)—built on an island in the middle of the Regnitz River when the bishop refused to give the townspeople land for a town hall! Wander the town’s serpentine streets with their charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8 – April 20 Nuremberg

Although 90% of Nuremberg’s Old Town suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it has been restored to the glory it once knew as the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. This morning, choose a GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR and marvel at this thousand-year-old city’s medieval fortifications, extraordinary gothic churches, and the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle), or join a more specialized “NUREMBERG RALLY GROUNDS” tour. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9 – April 21 Regensburg

Dating back to the time of the Celts around 500 BC, Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Established during the Holy Roman Empire and the only German city not bombed during WWII, Regensburg has at least 1,300 listed buildings of “historic interest.” Architectural highlights of your GUIDED WALK include the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), built in the 13th century, and Porta Pretoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Wander through the city’s lanes and alleys to discover the many mansions with high towers. Wealthy families built these towers to emphasize their status and wealth during the Middle Ages, and many still remain today. Walk across the 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (Stone Bridge), the oldest of its kind in Germany, then grab a beer and enjoy a SNACK at the Historische Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen), one of Germany’s oldest restaurants. Here—where the locals congregate—feel the vibrant atmosphere and take in the remarkable views along the river. Before dinner we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Optional Premium Excursion EXCURSION TO WELTENBURG ABBEY AND THE DANUBE GORGE The Danube Gorge has both a gentle and a strange beauty. In a magnificent show of force, the Danube has carved its way through the Swabian Alb to create a stunning landscape - a wild, romantic stretch of river with sheer cliffs rising over 300 feet out of the water. At its upper end Weltenburg Abbey is located on a peninsula directly below the cliffs of the gorge. It was founded by Irish or Scottish monks in 620 and is one of the oldest abbeys in Bavaria. The present Benedictine abbey dates back to the 18th century when it was extensively rebuilt in baroque style. Their ceiling frescoes of the Heavenly Jerusalem blend seamlessly with the abbey interior and are particularly noteworthy. Important is also that Weltenburg Abbey houses the oldest abbey brewery in the world, as the monks have been brewing beer since 1050. A beer and a "pretzel" are a welcome refreshment.

Day 10 – April 22 Passau

Uniquely located where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube Rivers converge, Passau is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful patrician houses. St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian baroque architecture, houses one of the world’s largest church organs with 17,774 pipes. Take in the highlights on the included GUIDED WALK through this charming town, and find out much more about the “City of Three Rivers.” Alternatively, you might like to join a full-day optional excursion to to see some of The Sound of Music sights or to Český Krumlov in the , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Optional Premium Excursions: SALZBURG - SOUND OF MUSIC Picturesquely located at the foothills of the Alps the city is known as the birth-place of Mozart. Salzburg is also the setting for the Sound of Music movie, which has shaped the city's perception in the minds of generations. But Salzburg is much more. It is a wealthy city with history based on the salt trade from the nearby Alpine Mountains-a city full of beautiful baroque buildings, nestled between the mountains and green waters of the Salzach River. In your free time strolling through the small but busy lanes with their wrought iron signs, using a cable car to ride up to the castle on the hill for views, or just passing time by relaxing on one of the many terraces makes you feel part of the scenery. On our scenic ride by coach you will admire the beauty of the region. Our dedicated local experts will talk about and show you the city, and relive scenes from the Sound of Music. After free time we shall also visit the church at Mondsee where the "von Trapps" were married.

ROMANTIC AUSTRIA - A COUNTRYSIDE EXCURSION TO THE SALZKAMMERGUT LAKE DISTRICT The picturesque mountain lakes, the luscious green of the hills and fields, striking mountain cliffs and romantic villages - these are just a few reasons that for centuries attracted countless writers, composers and creative artists to find inspiration in the magnificent landscape of the Salzkammergut region, shared between the provinces of Salzburg, Upper Austria and Styria - the famous Austrian Lake District. The literal translation of the Salzkammergut is "salt chamber estate" and refers to an area where salt was mined and which was formerly under the control of the Imperial Chamber in Vienna. Today, the term has developed into a brand name for one of the loveliest holiday regions of Central Europe with over 70 lakes, which are of drinking water quality and range in color from turquoise to emerald green. Let us reveal to you the unspoiled beauty of Gmunden and St. Wolgang region and some of the most panoramic routes in Austria.

Day 11 – April 23 Dürnstein, Austria

A day of magical scenery awaits you today! As you cruise into the Wachau Valley, pass unmistakable Melk Abbey, high up and overlooking the river. Then, head into the heart of the Wachau wine region to Dürnstein, known for its baroque blue Stiftskirche. A Local Guide will take you on a WALKING TOUR and tell you the tale of England’s King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the castle whose ruins still stand above the town. Later, an excursion takes you to the magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also positioned high up overlooking the Danube. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Optional Premium Excursions WACHAU DINNER WITH WINE TASTING End your day dining in one of Austria's iconic wine institutions: the "Heurigen", where vintners serve their own wines from the current harvest year. The "Heuriger" combines the conviviality of the city with the rural ambience of the vineyards. The wine is traditionally accompanied by cold dishes, assorted cheese, cold cuts, and sometimes warm dishes from the buffet, typical Austrian desserts, apricot dumplings, poppy seed noodles to name a few. Unlimited wine and soft drinks are included. During dinner you will be entertained by an accordion player, with typical Viennese "Schrammelmusik", which is the most popular form of modern Austrian folk music.

BIKING IN THE WACHAU VALLEY Biking along the Danube is becoming a popular pastime. So if you are fit and ready for some exercise grab a bike, a helmet and cycle along the waters of the mighty river, passing the lovely vineyards and romantic villages of the Wachau Valley. (Minimum physical condition necessary - not allowed for hearing impaired - weather dependent)

Day 12 – April 24 Vienna

Early this morning, arrive in Vienna, the “City of Music,” which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s magical capital on the blue Danube is a showcase of gilded architecture. This is home to the lavish Hofburg Imperial Palace complex with its Vienna Boys’ Choir and dazzling Lipizzaner stallions; the neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House; and awe- inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral—plus, countless other sites you’ll see on your GUIDED TOUR. Stroll through the delightful pedestrian Kärntnerstrasse, and be sure to take a break and enjoy a piece of decadent Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in one of the classic Viennese coffee houses—historic institutions that helped shape Viennese culture!

Optional Premium Excursions ROYAL WALTZ CONCERT Don't miss a truly magical evening in Vienna, featuring the most famous opera Arias by Mozart, Strauss Waltzes, polkas and operetta excerpts from "Die Fledermaus" by Johann Strauss, "The Merry Widow" by Franz Lehar, the Blue Danube waltz, the Radetzky March and many others, performed by a brilliant cast of top European singers, beautifully costumed dancers and the Original Wiener Salon Orchestra. A true celebration of joy and optimism featuring familiar music, combined with dance and storytelling that recalls happy memories of a time when music helped to shape the city of Vienna: a city of world- class artistry and a true flair for celebration.

A VISIT OF SCHONBRUNN IMPERIAL PALACE Schonbrunn, the former summer residence of the Imperial family, is considered one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Europe. The Habsburgs resided here for the better part of the year in numerous rooms to house the large Imperial family. Emperor Franz Joseph, who later married the enchanting Sissi and reigned from 1848 to 1916, was born here in 1830. The monarch spent his last years entirely in the palace, which became the property of the new Republic of Austria only two years after his death. Today, the palace is part of UNESCO's cultural heritage due to its historic importance, unique grounds and splendid furnishings. Follow our local expert and visit Empress Sissi's former summer residence, afterwards take your time to stroll through the park and enjoy the impressive gardens. Day 13 – April 25 Bratislava, Slovakia

At the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains is Bratislava, the dynamic capital of Slovakia. After breakfast, join your Local Guide for a tour of the city, including a GUIDED WALK of its fascinating Old Town, where winding cobblestoned streets and narrow alleyways twist and turn to reveal the Town Hall, one of the oldest stone buildings in the city. Also visit gothic ST. MARTIN’S CATHEDRAL, coronation church for the Kingdom of Hungary from the 16th to 19th centuries. This afternoon is free to explore on your own. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Optional Premium Excursion SCHLOSS HOF - A CASTLE AND ITS PEOPLE Just another castle? No! Schloss Hof is more than just a castle. Like other palaces Schloss Hof shows you the splendor of representation, this one also offers beautiful gardens and the empress' farm & animals. After the guided visit of the palace you can explore the animal zoo-garden; maybe pet the white donkeys, and take your time to explore the palace grounds in order to get a picture of the aristocracy centuries ago.

Day 14 – April 26 Budapest, Hungary

Spanning the banks of the Danube, Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s liveliest cities. Whether you’re seeing the sights, shopping for handcrafted embroidery or Herend porcelain, or basking in the coffee house culture over a rich cream cake in the renowned Gerbeaud Café, Budapest’s unique energy is positively palatable. On your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR, see Heroes Square as well as the massive hilltop castle complex with its remarkable Fishermen’s Bastion and 11th-century Matthias Church. Be sure to note the city’s eight bridges—many famous sights in and of themselves—which connect ancient Buda on the right bank with

Pest on the left. In your free time this afternoon you may want to walk across Chain Bridge, built in 1849 and a symbol of Budapest. Alternatively, consider visiting St. Stephen’s Basilica with marvelous views of the city from its viewing platform, or stroll along Váci utca, the main shopping street. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Optional Premium Excursions HUNGARIAN COUNTRYSIDE EXPERIENCE WITH WINE TASTING Enjoy a genuine countryside experience only 30 minutes away from the capital. Stroll through the stunning vineyards of Etyek, enjoy the fascinating landscape of the youngest and the fastest developing wine region of Hungary. Visit two small, family-run wineries; learn the secrets of winemaking from the local winemakers. Sample three top quality wines in each cellar along with tasty Hungarian snacks. You will leave with a really intimate understanding of the traditions and people that make the wines here so special.

GOLD & GLAMOROUS: "BELLE EPOQUES" OF BUDAPEST Travel back in time with your guide; join a short along the Danube embankment with a short walk to one of the hidden treasures of Budapest, the House of Hungarian Art Nouveau. It houses a unique exhibition representing the refined world of Art Nouveau, including paintings, furniture, decorative objects and interiors, to give an insight into the atmosphere of middle-class life in Budapest in the "happy pre- war times". The second stop of your tour is the "musical jewelry box" of Pest, the Hungarian State Opera House. The building enchants not only lovers of opera and ballet, but everyone who is amazed by the fine neo- Renaissance architecture. Following the visit you will be treated to coffee and cake in the Book Café, in the glamorous main hall of the Department Store, one of the hidden secrets of the city. Sip your coffee and taste a fine delicacy of Hungarian confectioners in this glossy literary cafe with glittering chandeliers and flamboyant ceiling frescoes, painted by the same artist whose masterpieces raise the splendor of the State Opera House, Parliament and several other public buildings. This tour is a must for any passionate photographer as there are plenty of fantastic photo opportunities.’

Day 15 – April 27 Budapest (Disembarkation)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

To reserve your spot, please contact Danny Genung at [email protected] or call (909) 266 -0117